Page 45 of Absinthe Minded

Chloe nodded, her shoulders shaking with each sob.

I placed my hand on her forehead and frowned. She had a fever. “Do you want me to stay here or do you need privacy?”

“Privacy.”

I worried she’d fall or vomit again and freak out, but I understood. “I’ll get you some PJs and wait in the hall in case you need me.”

“I love you, Uncle Gabe.”

My heart melted. Getting puked on was worth it—almost. “Love you, too, munchkin.”

After the quick bath, I tucked the girl into bed. Her forehead didn’t feel as warm as it had and her color looked better, but I hated to leave her alone.

Tears leaked from Chloe’s eyes.

“What’s the matter?” I smoothed her hair back from her face.

“I’m going to miss my recital.”

“What if we hold another one? We’ll invite the family. It’ll be a one woman show.”

“Will there be a stage?” Her expression brightened, and I knew she’d be okay.

“Of course.”

“And a pink costume with wings?”

I booped her nose. “Is there any other kind?”

Chloe snuggled into her pillow. “Okay.”

“I need to check on Ella and Maggie. Will you be okay for a few minutes?”

She nodded and patted the side of the bed.

The chocolate lab hopped up and curled against the little girl. The dog and I shared a look. Cocoa was a pain in the ass, but she’d keep an eye on her master.

I stepped into the master bedroom and peeked into the crib. Sound asleep, Ella sucked an imaginary bottle. I could have watched her sleep for hours, but a noise from the bathroom drew my attention.

I leaned close to the door and lowered my voice. “Maggie?” When she didn’t respond, I poked my head inside. “Mags?”

She’d fallen asleep while spooning the toilet.

I touched her shoulder. “Wake up, sweetheart.”

She raised her head with the most pitiful expression I’d ever seen. “Help me to my bedroom. I don’t want Ella to get sick.”

I slid an arm around her waist, hoisted her to her feet, and half-carried her to my bed. “Stay in here. It’s closer to the bathroom. Chloe’s in bed.”

“Is she okay?” She started to get up, more than likely planning to check on the girl.

“She’s fine. Cocoa’s keeping an eye on her.”

Maggie curled into the pillows. “Aren’t our mothers still here?”

“No. I threw them out for bad behavior.” I pulled the blankets to her chin.

“They hate each other.”

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